Proposed class action lawsuit alleges Cowichan ruling caused economic, psychological harm

A proposed class action lawsuit is going after the federal and provincial governments over the Cowichan land title dispute .

The proposed lawsuit alleges both levels of government had “long-standing” knowledge that unresolved Indigenous land claims threatened the security of property ownership in Canada.

The lawsuit alleges the recent court decision recognizing the Cowichan Tribes’ title over a swath of property in Richmond has caused economic and psychological harm.

It alleges that the government “continued to assure the public that the title registered under the Land Title Act was safe, marketable and free from material qualification,” despite knowing about potential problems.

The federal and provincial governments are appealing the B.C. Supreme Court’s ruling in favour of the Quw’